NHS Lincolnshire ICB has been made aware of a fraudulent website posing as an NHS dentist (“The Dental Practice Hellesdon”), which has deceived several patients into booking fake appointments and making illegitimate payments. This website, which was designed to look like an official NHS service, has unfortunately resulted in financial loss and potential delays in patients receiving the dental care they need.
We take this matter very seriously and are working closely with law enforcement authorities and the appropriate regulatory bodies to investigate this scam and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. We urge all patients to remain vigilant when booking any medical or dental services online.
What to Do if You Have Been Affected
Report the Scam:
If you believe you have fallen victim to this scam, please report it immediately to Action Fraud (the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre) at Action Fraud’s website or by calling 0300 123 2040.
You should also inform your bank or credit card provider if you have made any payments through the fraudulent website.
Monitor Your Accounts:
Keep a close eye on your bank accounts and report any suspicious or unauthorized transactions to your bank.
Seek Genuine NHS Dental Services:
If you need to find a genuine NHS dentist, always use the official NHS website at www.nhs.uk. This site will allow you to search for NHS-registered dental practices in your area. Do not rely on search engines or ads for healthcare services without verifying their legitimacy on official NHS platforms.
Tips to Protect Yourself Against Scams:
- Verify Website URLs: Always check that the website you are using to book appointments or make payments is an official NHS website, which will always have a “.nhs.uk” domain.
- Beware of Upfront Payments: NHS dental services do not require upfront payments through online booking platforms. If you are asked to pay in advance, be cautious and verify the source before proceeding.
- Look for Official Branding: Ensure that the website has NHS branding, such as the NHS logo, and check the site’s contact details, making sure they match the information on the NHS website.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If something doesn’t seem right, or if you encounter a suspicious website claiming to offer NHS services, report it to the NHS Counter Fraud Authority at 0800 028 4060.
We are deeply concerned that patients have fallen victim to this scam and recognise the distress it has caused. We urge everyone to be vigilant when accessing healthcare services online. The NHS is committed to protecting patients and will continue to take steps to ensure online healthcare services are safe and secure. If you have been affected, please contact the relevant authorities, and we are here to help you receive the care and support you need.
For more information, please email licb.communications@nhs.net